State Superintendent Listens to Student Pitch About Her Dream Project

State School Superintendent Richard Woods often asks members of his Student Advisory Council for their feedback on his ideas and issues in education, but this week, one of those students had the opportunity to ask the state's top educator his thoughts about her ideas instead.

Woods came to ET Booth MS to hear a presentation by eighth-grader Ila Prabhuram, who serves on the State Superintendent's Student Advisory Council.  The Council is made up of 120 students from across Georgia to provide feedback and discussion about state board policies, as well as participate in service projects and serve as student ambassadors.  Ila gave a 20-minute presentation to Woods about a future nonprofit organization she is planning called "College Pathway," that will provide college scholarships to students. Ila led Woods and CCSD Superintendent Dr. Brian Hightower through a PowerPoint presentation over lunch that described her idea and the work she has done thus far, including her vision for special events, fundraising, a website and a smartphone app. 

Both Superintendents commended Ila for her initiative and enthusiasm in pursuit of her project, as well as giving suggestions for how to move forward.   

ET Booth MS eighth-grader Ila Prabhuram presents her idea for College Pathway.

State School Superintendent Richard Woods commends Ila for her idea and ambition.

From left, Ila, ET Booth MS Principal Dr. Mike Manzella, CCSD School Superintendent Dr. Brian Hightower, and State School Superintendent Richard Woods discuss Ila's plans in the media center after her presentation.